EPA’s Ocean-Going Research Vessel to Visit Newport, RI

The EPA’s New England regional office along with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and Coastal America are offering the media and the public a free open house tour of EPA’s Ocean Survey Vessel “Bold,” Thursday July 5, from 10 am to 4 pm at the State Fish Pier #9, in Downtown Newport, RI. This will be the Bold’s first visit to Rhode Island.

The Bold is a converted U.S. Navy 224-foot ocean surveillance ship designed to help EPA monitor and assess the impacts of pollution and the health of our coastal and ocean waters. Outfitted with state-of-the art equipment, the Bold collects samples of water, sediment and organisms to be processed and analyzed either onboard or onshore. The vessel also conducts surveys to support management of dredge disposal areas and to collect information about ocean bottom habitats.

The ship is planning to conduct a four day survey of Rhode Island Sound and other offshore areas starting on July 5 with scientists from the EPA National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory Atlantic Ecology Division in Narragansett Rhode Island.

All ages are encouraged to stop by to observe sampling demonstrations, interact with the animal tank which will include organisms recently collected offshore, and to explore the Bold’s features and capabilities. Scientists and staff will be aboard to give tours and answer questions about EPA’s one of a kind research vessel. The public is invited to take advantage of this unique opportunity to gain a first hand glimpse into EPA’s efforts in ocean monitoring and coastal studies in Narragansett Bay and other locations throughout the country.